A new project with a proven track record of tackling domestic violence in America will be rolled out across the borough.

Harrow Borough Council will be one of the first authority’s in the country to use the anti-domestic violence programme first piloted in San Francisco called American Family Domestic programme.

The announcement comes after the council cabinet approved £200,000 last week to roll out the programme to tackle the issue.

The programme aims to bring families with a history of violence together to confront the abuse using education, support techniques and community peer-pressure.

Council cabinet member for adults and older people Margaret Davine, said: “It is unacceptable for women and girls to be subjected to violence of this type.

“Unfortunately this is rising in our borough. As a councillor I am determined to do all I can to prevent this abuse, which is largely hidden behind closed doors.

“With domestic violence, what we see is a lack of willingness for women to come forward, because they are afraid to do so. But we can and will help.

“Domestic violence affects entire families, including children, and it is only right that even with cuts to local government budgets we are prioritising tackling domestic violence.

“That is why I am so delighted to see this council commit £200,000 to expand our current services. I know money is only part of the solution, we need people in the community to stand up and report these acts.”

The money will help pay for more independent domestic violence advisors to work in Harrow who will support victims of abuse, encourage reporting and gather data to improve its detection.

Cash will also be spent giving training to doctors, nurses, teachers and other voluntary organisations to help spot signs of abuse.

The money is part of £1million pledged by the Labour administration to be spent in the next four years to tackle domestic violence.